Speaking of psychology is taking a winter break, so we're rerunning some of our favorite episodes from the past.

In December 2021, I talked to psychologist Doris Bergen and toy designer Barry Kudrowitz about what makes a great toy,

what makes some toys stand the test of time, and the importance of play for both

children and adults. We hope you enjoy this episode from the archives. Speaking of psychology,

we'll be back with new episodes in January. Thank you for listening.

It's that time of year when parents and other caregivers race to find the hottest toys and stock up on classic favorites.

From Poppets to Pokemon, from Squishmallow's to Legos.

Toys might seem frivolous, but to psychologists, they're a subject for serious study.

Researchers have long known that children learn best through play.

Play is how kids stretch their brains and develop crucial cognitive, social, and other skills.

And toys are a fundamental part of playtime. But what makes something a good toy? Indeed,

what makes something a toy at all? Why do some toys stand the

test of time, while others are just a one-season wonder? What's the difference between fun and

educational toys? Why do we assign gender appropriateness to some toys and not to others? How do

kids' toy preferences change as they age, and how has

technology change what toys are and the way kids play with toys? Welcome to Speaking of Psychology,

the flagship podcast of the American Psychological Association that examines the links between

psychological science and everyday life.

I'm Kim Mills.

We have two guests today.

Our first is Dr. Barry Kudrowitz, an associate professor and director of product design

at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, where he teaches classes in toy product design. Dr. Kudrowitz has a PhD in mechanical

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